Question
I would like to know what the common causes of neonatal asphyxia are? What should be noticed in this situation?
Answer
Neonatal asphyxia is one of the main causes of neonatal death. It refers to the condition where a newborn stops breathing or fails to establish a normal respiratory hypoxia state within one minute after birth. Here are the common causes of neonatal asphyxia:
- Fetal Asphyxia: The fetus may experience asphyxia in the womb, which could be due to placental dysfunction or fetal asphyxia syndrome, among other reasons.
- Asphyxia During Delivery: During childbirth, the newborn may be affected by asphyxia, such as excessive pressure on the birth canal or umbilical cord around the neck.
- Neonatal Respiratory System Issues: After birth, if there are problems with the neonate’s respiratory system, such as underdeveloped respiratory structures or lung infections, it can also lead to asphyxia. In the event of neonatal asphyxia, the following should be noted:
- Seek Immediate Help: Notify medical personnel immediately to allow for timely rescue measures.
- Maintain Airway Patency: Ensure that the newborn’s airway is clear, which can be achieved by elevating the head, turning the baby, and other methods.
- Perform CPR: If the newborn does not breathe or has no heartbeat, CPR should be administered.
- Monitor Closely: Keep a close watch on the newborn’s respiratory rate, heart rate, and skin color changes to assess their condition in a timely manner. Understanding the causes of neonatal asphyxia and taking appropriate preventive measures is very important. This helps reduce neonatal mortality rates and prevent possible long-term sequelae.